part #:3100f - CanOBD2® Diagnostic Tool™

Please select a question from the choices below. You may also click on the buttons
on the left to download the manual for this tool, download the most current version
of software or shop for accessories.

Freeze Frame Data is a set of values that were present within the engine at the time a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) was set. Freeze Frame data includes important engine operating parameters, such as engine RPM, vehicle speed, engine coolant temperature, ignition timing advance, etc. After a repair is made, Freeze Frame data can be used to “recreate” the original conditions that were present when the DTC was originally stored. This is a critical step in determining if the repair was successful.

Innova Code Readers and Scan Tools are designed to work on all OBD2-compliant vehicles. OBD2-compliant means all 1996 and newer cars, light duty trucks/vans and SUVs sold in the United States Vehicles sold in other countries, although similar, are not configured the same as vehicles sold in the United States, and our tools may not be able to link to them. There are times when our tools will link to vehicles sold outside the United States, but this functionality is not guaranteed.

All of the OBD2-compatible Code Readers and Scan Tools manufactured by Innova will work on any OBD2-complaint vehicle, including those using the newer CAN bus. Currently, there is no cut off year for our tools.

No. Once you have purchased a Code Reader/Scan Tool and accompanying software CD, you can always download the latest version of the software from the Innova website (www.innova.com). Go to the Support section, and then choose Downloads.

Innova’s Code Readers and Scan Tools are designed to retrieve information that is stored in your vehicle’s computer. With the exception of initiating the EVAP system leak test (for vehicles that support this functionality), the tools do not command, control, or otherwise enter information no your vehicle. It is not possible for these tools to damage your vehicle’s electronic system.

The software provided with Scan Tool allows you to link the tool to your PC and transfer the information retrieved from your vehicle’s computer. It includes OBD2 code definitions, an instructional video about OBD2, and provides the ability to print and save reports.

The green, yellow, and red LEDs (light emitting diodes) provide a quick way to help you determine if a vehicle is ready for an Emissions Test (Smog Check).Green = System Pass; your vehicle is ready for an Emissions TestYellow = A potential problem may exist; Further investigation is required before attempting an Emissions TestRed = The vehicle has a stored trouble code; Vehicle must be repaired before attempting an Emissions Test.

We always recommend connecting the Code Reader to your vehicle first, before turning on the ignition or starting the vehicle. So long as this procedure is followed, you can use the Code Reader on the vehicle while it is running.IMPORTANT: If it is necessary to drive the vehicle while observing the Code Reader's display (such as when performing a Drive Cycle), ALWAYS have a second person help you. One person should drive while the second person observes the Code Reader's display.

The I/M MONITOR STATUS icons represent Monitors inside the vehicles computer. Monitors are special computer programs used by the vehicle’s computer to verify proper operation of specific emissions-related components or systems (Oxygen Sensor, Catalytic Converter, EGR Valve, Fuel System, etc.) to ensure their proper operation. If a Monitor icon is flashing, it indicates the associated Monitor is currently in “HAS NOT RUN” status. A Monitor will not run until the proper set of conditions required to enable it to perform the self-diagnosis and testing of its assigned engine system have occurred. When a Monitor icon is solid, it indicates the associated Monitor is currently in “HAS RUN” status; the Monitor was able to meet all the conditions required to enable it to perform and complete the self-diagnosis and testing of its assigned engine system. When the conditions are met to allow each monitor to run during a single trip (of multiple subsequent trips), it is called performing a Drive Cycle.

Every Innova Code Reader and Scan Tool is ready to be used right out of the package, and is configured with the latest version of the firmware available at the time of manufacture. There is no need to connect it to a PC to upload any data.

Vehicles that weigh more than 8500lbs Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) are considered “heavy duty vehicles,” and are not required to be OBD2-compliant. You can, however, check the Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) label. If the label states that the vehicle is OBD2-compliant, the code reader is compatible with the vehicle. This label is commonly located near the radiator.

The Scan Tool includes a built-in DTC Library function that includes definitions for most Generic DTCs as well as for a number of Manufacturer-specific DTCs. Definitions for all available DTCs (both Generic and Manufacturer-specific) can be accessed through the Innova website (www.innova.com). Go to the Tech Info section, then choose DTC Library, and follow the on-screen instructions.

There are two ways to obtain a replacement copy of the Owner’s Manual.You can download a copy of the Owner’s Manual in Adobe PDF format (for viewing and printing using Adobe’s Acrobat Reader) from the Innova website (www.innova.com). Go to the Support section, and then choose Downloads.You can purchase a new “hard copy” of the Owner’s Manual from the Innova website (www.innova.com). Go to the Products section, and then choose Accessories.

It is not necessary to purchase any additional adapters. All OBD2-compliant vehicles that were manufactured and built after 1996 are equipped with a standardized universal 16-pin connector. The cable supplied with the Scan Tool will allow for connection to all vehicles equipped with an OBD2-compliant computer system.

Definitions for all available DTCs (both Generic and Manufacturer-specific) can be accessed through the Innova website (www.innova.com). Go to the Tech Info section, then choose DTC Library, and follow the on-screen instructions.

All of Innova’s Code Readers and Scan Tools are designed to retrieve Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) from the powertrain control module that turns on the vehicle’s Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL). The powertrain system on OBD2-compliant vehicles is required to follow certain rules. Currently, manufacturers are free to use any methods they wish to implement other systems. Innova’s tools will not access the Body, Traction Control or Air Bag codes.

The “Unable to establish link” message indicates that the Code Reader was not able to establish a link with the vehicle’s computer. Check the cable connections at the vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC) and at the Code Reader. Turn the ignition off, wait 10 ~ 12 seconds, then turn the ignition back on to reset the vehicle’s computer. NOTE: If you continue to receive the “Unable to establish link” message, try starting the vehicle first, then connect the Code Reader to the vehicle’s DLC with the engine running. If the condition continues, it may be necessary to update the Code Reader firmware. If you are still unable to link to your vehicle after performing these steps, please contact our technical support team for additional assistance.

Yes, so long as the vehicle is OBD2-compliant. Check the emission Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) label. If the label states that the vehicle is OBD2-compliant, the code reader is compatible with the vehicle. The Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) label is normally located under the hood in front of the radiator.NOTE: Vehicles that weigh more than 8500lbs Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) are not required by law to OBD2 compliant, and therefore are usually not. These vehicles are considered to be heavy-duty vehicles and do not need to comply with the same rules as light/medium duty vehicles.

The Innova OBD2 cable uses only 14 pins because it is not necessary to use all 16 pins of the vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC) to test the OBD2 system. The two missing (unused) pins are designed to test other parts of the vehicle’s system that does not involve the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).